What a Whirlwind!

It's already May and the end of the year is in sight! Luckily, first graders have a very different sense of time and they don't realize how quickly the end is coming! We'll keep having math and reading and writing and spelling right up to the very end. By keeping the schedule as normal as possible, the class will continue to be kind and productive and learning!

Our farm unit in math is in full swing! The farms are taking shape and have barns, farmhouses, silos, sheep, cows, chickens, goats, pigs...the farmers here are very busy! You'll be happy to know that a house in "Hinesville" costs only $30! The kids are so excited and most days kids spend extra time in the morning working on their farms. We've read many great books about farms and farm animals. They really do have a better understanding of how much work it is to farm and what a dangerous job it can be. More importantly, perhaps, they have worked really hard to "pay" for everything on their farm. There were days where I'd planned some extra time to help them count out (for example) $27 to pay for the barn. I was certain that using two tens, a five and two ones would be really tricky...the entire class whizzed through that activity and surprised me! It's even more motivating than I thought! We had a special visit this week...Nathan Brown (from Mrs. McGuire's class) invited his grandmother to bring her lamb to show and share with our classes. Each child had the chance to pet the lamb, named Blanca. Very sweet!

I've been working on the end of the year reading assessments. I know...it's early to begin the END of year assessments, but our supervisory union collects data and most of it needs to be in by June 1st or not long after. On a positive note, children are doing REALLY well and showing great growth!

As the end of year activities draw closer (Move Up day, field days, school picnic, etc.) I'll be sure to send reminders. Field days usually has a water activity which requires a bathing suit and/or change of clothes...sunscreen...etc.

Have a great weekend!
Michelle